KTM’s middleweight adventure platform looks poised for a significant evolution, as new spy shots captured by moto-paparazzo Bernhard M. Höhne show a near‑production prototype of what appears to be the next‑generation 790 Adventure undergoing testing in Upper Austria. While the 790 has had one of the more unusual product arcs in KTM’s lineup — debuting in 2019, disappearing in favor of the 890, then returning as the more affordable option — the images suggest its next chapter will be far more substantial than a routine refresh.

One of the most striking changes visible in the prototype is the move away from the 790’s signature low‑slung fuel pods. The design, long debated among riders for both its handling benefits and its aesthetics, appears to be replaced by a traditional tank layout. The front fairing is wider than the current model, hinting that KTM may be able to retain similar fuel volume despite the structural change.

The prototype shows a motorcycle that is unmistakably KTM, yet noticeably more refined in appearance. The front end adopts a new interpretation of the brand’s recent headlight design language, incorporating 3D elements and occupying less visual real estate than the current 790/890 units. The steep, rally‑inspired nose echoes KTM’s Dakar machinery and aligns closely with design cues seen on prototypes of the 990 Adventure.

The bodywork overall appears smoother and more cohesive, with fewer sharp edges and a more integrated look. The rear subframe is more exposed, with reduced use of plastic panels, giving the bike a cleaner, more utilitarian profile.

Despite the notable visual changes, the underlying architecture seems familiar. The frame, swingarm, and suspension components appear to match the current 790/890 platform, suggesting KTM is sticking with its proven LC8c chassis for the next generation. The exhaust remains mounted high and relatively large — more so than what’s expected on the 990 Adventure — though its shape has been updated.

The 799cc parallel twin powering today’s 790 Adventure produces 95 hp and 64.1 ft-lbs (87 Nm) of torque, and nothing in the prototype indicates a departure from that performance class.

The cockpit of the test bike features the 5‑inch TFT display used in the current 790 and 890 Adventure models. This contrasts with the vertically oriented large touchscreen seen on 990 Adventure prototypes, reinforcing the likelihood that KTM will continue to differentiate the two platforms not only by displacement but also by tech and equipment level.

The prototype is equipped with components from WP Braking Systems, KTM’s new in‑house brake division that is gradually rolling out across the lineup. This marks another step in the brand’s consolidation of chassis and component development under the WP umbrella.

Judging by the completeness of the bodywork, lighting, and fitment, the prototype appears well along in development. However, a public reveal in 2026 seems unlikely. KTM has recently favored unveiling new adventure models shortly before the start of the “riding season,” making spring 2027 a more probable timeframe for the official debut.